Spring Plumbing Checklist

Spring is finally here and that means it’s time for your spring plumbing checklist. It’s safe to say that most of us do spring cleaning, but have you ever thought about a little preventative maintenance on your plumbing? This may seem unnecessary but it can save you money down the road and reduce your chances of plumbing issues in the future. Let’s take a look at ways to ensure your plumbing system is in tip-top shape this season.

1. Inspect Your Toilet Bowls

The first thing to check in the most plumbing-heavy rooms are the pipes. Take a look at your toilet tank and bowl for cracks or leaks. It’s also important to make sure the toilets are flushing properly. To easily check if your toilet is leaking, add a few drops of food coloring to your toilet tank. If the color appears in your toilet bowl, then your toilet is leaking.

2. Check the Area Under Your Sink

After inspecting your toilet, check the water supply valves under your sinks to make sure they aren’t sticking. Remove all of the items from under your sink and inspect the area. Make sure there isn’t any lime build-up on the turn off valves and the bottom of your pipes show no signs of a leak.

3. Take a Look at Your Water Heater

Water heaters have a limited lifespan and typically require replacement after roughly ten years. The temperature of your water heater should be set no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent scalding and reduce energy use. Furthermore, a proper temperature allows your home to get the best balance of energy efficiency and performance.

4. Sump Pump Maintenance

It’s important to periodically check the discharge lines to make sure that they are working properly. Look around the area where the discharge line is emptied outside of your home and remove any visible obstructions. Additionally, you can evaluate your sump pump by pouring a few buckets of water into it. If the pump doesn’t quickly turn on and discharge the water, you may be in need of a professional inspection to clear the blockage.

5. Don’t Forget About the Outdoors

Next, inspect your yard drains, gutters, and downspouts. These should be cleaned out and free of debris. Turn on your outdoor water to check the outdoor faucets for leaks and ensure the water is flowing correctly. Even a small, constant drip can unnecessarily waste water. Furthermore, it can potentially seep into the ground and damage the foundation of your home.

We Can Help You Complete Your Spring Plumbing Checklist

Overwhelmed by this spring to-do list? We understand that not every Milwaukee homeowner wants to get involved in plumbing repairs. With over 30 years of experience, Ihn Company is your one-stop-shop for all Milwaukee plumbing and foundation repair services. Contact us today!